It's been just over 2 years since 'The Betrayed' and its experimental sound hit the charts, but now Lostprophets are back with a vengeance with 5th studio album, 'Weapons'. After various changes behind the scenes in the band's camp, it appears they're back to make their mark once again, and stamp the Lostprophets name back where it belongs.
Album opener and first single release 'Bring 'em Down' is an absolute stormer. Chant-like drums and vocals and a very catchy chorus not only draw you in straight from the start, but the nod to early Lostprophets material is clearly obvious. This is sure to be a huge live favourite with its sing-a-long chorus and anthemic feel. Definite set opener for the forthcoming tour if ever I've heard one.
Next song 'Better Off Dead' has that old school Ian Watkins "rapping" which hasn't been so visible in recent releases. Radio 1's Zane Lowe has already played the song as his "Hottest Record in the World" - you can't argue with that sort of feedback!
'Another Shot' slows things down with a melodic, almost haunting vocal from Ian. The chorus is still pretty epic but it's good to hear Ian show off that impressive vocal range which, for anyone who has seen the band live, will know is a staple part of the shows.
'You And Me' follows suit and brings a rhythmic, blended sound from vocals and harmonies, through to the smooth production. It's a shame UK Lostprophets fans will have to wait until next summer for a festival appearance as this would be a perfect accompaniment to that end of a festival day sunset.
Next track 'A Song For Where I'm From' has a real Jimmy Eat Wold feel, reminiscent of 'The Middle', particularly the drums in the verses. An homage to the people back home, this is a real heartfelt and clearly personal song.
Slowing things down again is 'A Little Reminder That I'll Never Forget'. Short drum beats accompany quite non-Lostprophets "aah's" and "ooh's". It makes this the most likely song to be mistaken for someone else, had it not been for the full chorus and distinctive Ian Watkins vocals.
With an opening sing-a-long of "way-oh, way-oh, la la la", 'If You Bring A Gun, We'll Bring An Arsenal' was always destined to be an anthemic smash of a song. Upbeat, addictive and with a sound that would get anyone wanting to dance, this is sure to be a live classic for years to come.
Band member, Jamie's favourite album track, 'Heart On Loan' is up next; a track he says gives him goosebumps every time he hears it. Possibly the most emotive song on the album, this is dripping in angst - and that's not necessarily a bad thing. A chilled summery sound juxtaposed with downbeat and heartstring-pulling lyrics, this is a song for the band to definitely be proud of.
An acoustic intro? In a Lostprophets song? Luckily, thanks to Ian's fantastic vocals, the start of 'Somedays' really works. Of course, once the drums kick in, it's a bit more like the sound we're used to, but still a super chilled sound for the album. A real polar opposite to the start of the record, but a chance for the band to showcase their talent, range and eclectic influences.
Album closer 'Can't Get Enough' starts with a beautiful piano and strings intro, with each eerie and haunting line building up to a typically epic Lostprophets chorus. Another sing-a-long track that is a perfect closer to 10 tracks of the classic familiar sound we know from this awesome band.
I've used the words "anthemic" and "epic" a few times in this review, but they're words that epitomise the sound of 'Weapons'. It's clear that Lostprophets have put their heart and soul into this album, and are proud to be releasing something that they've worked so hard on. Each song will sound amazing live, and that live feel comes through with each listen. If a nod to the early days and the start of "Lostprophets: Chapter Two" is what the band were aiming for, then they've absolutely nailed it with 'Weapons'. A very welcome return for one of Britain's best rock bands.
'Weapons' is released on 2nd April 2012.
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Album opener and first single release 'Bring 'em Down' is an absolute stormer. Chant-like drums and vocals and a very catchy chorus not only draw you in straight from the start, but the nod to early Lostprophets material is clearly obvious. This is sure to be a huge live favourite with its sing-a-long chorus and anthemic feel. Definite set opener for the forthcoming tour if ever I've heard one..jpg)
